Page 26 - 2018_IPC

CHAPTER 2
DEFINITIONS

User note:
About this chapter: Codes, by their very nature, are technical documents. Every word, term and punctuation mark can add to or change the
meaning of a technical requirement. It is necessary to maintain a consensus on the specific meaning of each term contained in the code.
Chapter 2 performs this function by stating clearly what specific terms mean for the purpose of the code.

SECTION 201 pressures. The purpose of an air admittance valve is to pro-
GENERAL vide a method of allowing air to enter the plumbing drainage
201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the follow- system without the use of a vent extended to open air and to
ing words and terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have prevent sewer gases from escaping into a building.
the meanings shown in this chapter. AIR BREAK (Drainage System). A piping arrangement in
201.2 Interchangeability. Words stated in the present tense which a drain from a fixture, appliance or device discharges
include the future; words stated in the masculine gender indirectly into another fixture, receptacle or interceptor at a
include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes point below the flood level rim and above the trap seal.
the plural and the plural the singular. AIR GAP (Drainage System). The unobstructed vertical
201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not distance through the free atmosphere between the outlet of
defined in this code and are defined in the International the waste pipe and the flood level rim of the receptacle into
Building Code, International Fire Code, International Fuel which the waste pipe is discharging.
Gas Code or the International Mechanical Code, such terms AIR GAP (Water Distribution System). The unobstructed
shall have the meanings ascribed to them as in those codes. vertical distance through the free atmosphere between the
201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined lowest opening from any pipe or faucet supplying water to a
through the methods authorized by this section, such terms tank, plumbing fixture or other device and the flood level rim
shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context of the receptacle.
implies. ALTERNATE ON-SITE NONPOTABLE WATER. Non-
potable water from other than public utilities, on-site surface
sources and subsurface natural freshwater sources. Examples
SECTION 202 of such water are graywater, on-site reclaimed water, col-
GENERAL DEFINITIONS lected rainwater, captured condensate and rejected water
ACCEPTED ENGINEERING PRACTICE. That which from reverse osmosis systems.
conforms to accepted principles, tests or standards of nation- ALTERNATIVE ENGINEERED DESIGN. A plumbing
ally recognized technical or scientific authorities. system that performs in accordance with the intent of Chap-
[M] ACCESS (TO). That which enables a fixture, appliance ters 3 through 14 and provides an equivalent level of perfor-
or equipment to be reached by ready access or by a means mance for the protection of public health, safety and welfare.
that first requires the removal or movement of a panel, door The system design is not specifically regulated by Chapters 3
or similar obstruction (see “Ready access”). through 14.
ACCESS COVER. A removable plate, usually secured by ANCHORS. See “Supports.”
bolts or screws, to permit access to a pipe or pipe fitting for ANTISIPHON. A term applied to valves or mechanical
the purposes of inspection, repair or cleaning.
devices that eliminate siphonage.
[BE] ACCESSIBLE. A site, building, facility or portion
thereof that complies with Chapter 11 of the International [A] APPROVED. Acceptable to the code official.
Building Code. [A] APPROVED AGENCY. An established and recognized
agency that is regularly engaged in conducting tests or fur-
ADAPTER FITTING. An approved connecting device that
suitably and properly joins or adjusts pipes and fittings that nishing inspection services, or furnishing product certifica-
do not otherwise fit together. tion where such agency has been approved by the code
official.
AIR ADMITTANCE VALVE. One-way valve designed to
allow air to enter the plumbing drainage system when nega- AREA DRAIN. A receptacle designed to collect surface or
tive pressures develop in the piping system. The device shall storm water from an open area.
close by gravity and seal the vent terminal at zero differential BACKFLOW. Pressure created by any means in the water
pressure (no-flow conditions) and under positive internal distribution system, which by being in excess of the pressure

2018 INTERNATIONAL PLUMBING CODE ® 9
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